Newton's Lore: Bright nights in EC1

Daren Newton, Founding Publisher of The Clerkenwell Post, runs the rule over some great evening spots.

When the lights go down in Clerkenwell and the day’s coffee wears off, the area transforms into a buzzing hive of after-dark entertainment that boasts some of the quirkiest cocktail hangouts, stylish wine bars and renowned clubs in London.

Head to the Victorian warehouse turned non-stop live music venue Piano Works for an evening of unapologetic fun. Here you’ll find two pianists and talented musicians who only play songs requested by the audience, so anything goes!

The glamorous glow of Beduin Bar is likely to lure you in and is a hit with locals for its charming low-lit interior and plush sofas. The bar counts itself as one of Smithfields most lavish party experiences - pop down and see for yourself.

For acoustic lovers, The Slaughtered Lamb provides an intimate space with understated gigs, locally brewed beers and nights devoted to acoustic indie, electronica and avant-garde music in the heart of Clerkenwell – ideal for after work.

Needless to say, fabric is the go-to spot for a heady mix of famous DJs, rugged brick vaults, and strobes that span the labyrinth of rooms. Since opening in 1999, the EC1 venue has continued to set the standard for London clubbing with its bass filled bodysonic dance floor – a far cry from the renovated building’s beginnings as a Victorian meat storage cellar.

The building itself also comes alive in the daytime with events and happenings including Clerkenwell Design Week which this year celebrates its 10th edition. Think, renowned lighting brands and interactive installations weaving throughout the subterranean setting and maybe the odd free drink included!